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All Blacks

Crusaders back Robbie Fruean to have heart surgery again

The Crusaders have today announced that Centre Robbie Fruean has withdrawn from the remainder of the 2013 Investec Super Rugby Season as he is set to undergo heart surgery.

24–year–old Fruean requires a further valve replacement as a result of rheumatic fever he suffered as 20 year old. His cardiac function has been slowly deteriorating over the last 6 months and his specialist has recommended further surgery at this point.

Crusaders Doctor Dr Deborah Robinson says “Robbie has been closely monitored over the past few months and in conjunction with his specialist team the decision has been made to withdraw him from the remainder of the season and to have surgery. While Robbie is facing major surgery he is otherwise fit & healthy which should stand him in good stead for his recovery.”

Head Coach Todd Blackadder is fully behind Robbie “Robbie is a true inspiration to us all. He is positive about his upcoming surgery and is looking forward to getting his recovery underway. The Crusaders will miss his presence on the field plus all the laughter he brings to the team off the field. However we are fully behind Robbie and our thoughts and prayers are with him.”

‘I have no doubt that if the surgery goes well Robbie will be back next year and will be a force to be reckoned with. He is a fantastic rugby player. I know it’s been frustrating for him over the last few months that his body has not been able to perform to level he would like it to.

Fruean’s rugby career had to be put temporarily on hold in 2009 when his pancarditis was first identified following rheumatic fever and he underwent open-heart surgery. It didn’t hold him back for long though and in his debut season with Canterbury in 2010 ITM Cup he was the joint leading try scorer and ITM Cup Player of the year 2010 and 2012. He was selected for the Crusaders in 2010 and with 61 caps under his belt has racked up an impressive 80 points.

Prior to his elevation to Super Rugby the Centre also represented New Zealand in the 2007 Under 19’s championship-winning side. He also won the IRB Under 19 Player of the Year 2007.

Following surgery Fruean is likely to be in hospital for 4-5 days and it is expected that he can start gentle exercise within six weeks of surgery. We ask media to respect his privacy at this time.